Long-Distance Interval Training following Pre-Cooling with an Ice Vest

Abstract

This study evaluated how preparing for an interval workout, while wearing a cooling vest, affects core temperature (T_c), heart rate (HR), and interval time in long-distance runners. Nineteen male collegiate cross-country runners exercised under two different conditions: (a) wearing a Nike PreCool™ ice vest for one hour prior to the workout (30 minutes resting with the vest and 30 minutes while performing their warm-up); and (b) a control condition utilizing a traditional warm-up. Subjects performed 8 × 1000 m intervals. HR and T_c were measured prior to warm-up, immediately before the first interval, and after each interval. T_c measured before the first interval was significantly lower in the vest condition (difference = 0.37° ± 0.2°C). Differences persisted through the sixth interval. Differences in HR and interval times were nonsignificant between conditions for all intervals Wearing an ice vest prior to and during warm-up effectively lowers T_c during long-distance interval training.